What were Cicero’s last words?

What were Cicero’s Last Words?

Marcus Tullius Cicero, a renowned Roman statesman, orator, and philosopher, is known for his remarkable life and influential writings. His life was marked by numerous achievements, including his role as a leader in the Roman Republic and his extensive writings on philosophy, politics, and rhetoric. Unfortunately, Cicero’s life was also cut short by his brutal assassination in 43 BCE. In this article, we will explore Cicero’s last words, which have been passed down through history and continue to fascinate scholars and historians to this day.

The Assassination of Cicero

Cicero’s life came to an end on December 7, 43 BCE, when he was brutally murdered by a group of conspirators, including Marcus Antonius (Mark Antony) and Lucius Cornelius Cinna. The assassination was a result of Cicero’s growing opposition to Antony’s increasing power and his perceived threat to the Roman Republic. Cicero, who was 62 years old at the time of his death, was stabbed multiple times in his home in Formiae, Italy.

Cicero’s Last Words

According to historical accounts, Cicero’s last words were: "There is nothing proper about what you are doing, soldier, but do try to kill me properly." These words were spoken to the centurion who was about to deliver the fatal blow. Cicero’s words were a testament to his courage and dignity in the face of death.

The Significance of Cicero’s Last Words

Cicero’s last words have been interpreted in various ways by scholars and historians. Some have seen them as a reflection of his stoic philosophy, which emphasized the importance of living in accordance with reason and virtue. Others have viewed them as a commentary on the brutality and violence of his assassination.

Cicero’s Life and Legacy

Cicero’s life was marked by numerous achievements and contributions to Roman politics and philosophy. He was a skilled orator and lawyer, and his writings on philosophy, politics, and rhetoric have had a lasting impact on Western civilization. He was also a strong advocate for the Roman Republic and played a key role in the struggles against Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

Conclusion

Cicero’s last words, "There is nothing proper about what you are doing, soldier, but do try to kill me properly," are a testament to his courage and dignity in the face of death. They reflect his stoic philosophy and his commitment to living in accordance with reason and virtue. Cicero’s life and legacy continue to inspire and influence scholars and historians to this day, and his last words remain a powerful reminder of the importance of living with integrity and courage.

Additional Facts

• Cicero was born on January 3, 106 BCE, in Arpinum, Italy.
• He was a skilled orator and lawyer, and his writings on philosophy, politics, and rhetoric have had a lasting impact on Western civilization.
• Cicero was a strong advocate for the Roman Republic and played a key role in the struggles against Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
• He was assassinated on December 7, 43 BCE, by a group of conspirators, including Marcus Antonius (Mark Antony) and Lucius Cornelius Cinna.
• Cicero’s last words, "There is nothing proper about what you are doing, soldier, but do try to kill me properly," have been interpreted in various ways by scholars and historians.

Timeline

• 106 BCE: Cicero is born in Arpinum, Italy.
• 63 BCE: Cicero becomes a lawyer and begins to make a name for himself in Roman politics.
• 58 BCE: Cicero is elected to the Roman Senate.
• 52 BCE: Cicero is appointed as the Governor of Cilicia.
• 44 BCE: Cicero returns to Rome and begins to speak out against Julius Caesar’s growing power.
• 43 BCE: Cicero is assassinated by a group of conspirators, including Marcus Antonius (Mark Antony) and Lucius Cornelius Cinna.

Table: Cicero’s Life and Achievements

Bibliography

• Cicero, M. T. (44 BCE). Letters to Friends.
• Cicero, M. T. (44 BCE). Orations.
• Plutarch. (75 CE). Lives of the Noble Greeks and Romans.
• Suetonius. (110 CE). The Twelve Caesars.

Note: The article is based on historical accounts and may contain some inaccuracies.